Step 2. Pre-operative Assessment

Plan your surgery  >   Pre-operative Assessment

Before you undergo any kind of surgery, especially under general anaesthetic, it is essential that you are thoroughly screened for pre-existing medical conditions that may put you at higher risk during the surgery or in the post-operative period. Naturally, we take many steps to ensure your safety and wellbeing. Occasionally, additional measures are required to minimise the risks to you. For example, this may involve stopping blood-thinning medications such as aspirin or Warfarin pre-operatively or avoiding the use of medications that you are allergic to.

Our specialist nurses will ask you about your medical history, medications and any known allergies that you may have. They will also measure your blood pressure, pulse and respiratory rate. Your age or general health may necessitate further investigations including blood tests, heart tracings and X-rays. We occasionally arrange for a specialist physician or anaesthetist to examine you well before your surgery date, to ensure you are fit for the proposed procedure.

If you are routinely seeing your doctor or a specialist for a particular medical condition, it's wise to discuss your fitness for surgery with them.

At this time, you may book a date for your surgery, if you have not already done so. You will normally receive written confirmation of your admission date and time, and instructions for fasting times if necessary.